Discover Laochangbu Reservoir: Ganzhou’s Under-the-Radar Fishing Gem
If you’re a fishing enthusiast chasing quiet, unspoiled spots in Ganzhou, Jiangxi, Laochangbu Reservoir might just be your next go-to. Tucked away in Dahe Village, Gaoyunshan Township, Anyuan County, this reservoir isn’t the easiest to reach-but that’s part of its charm. No crowds, no noisy tourist hubs, just you, the water, and the thrill of waiting for a bite. Let me break down what you need to know before packing your gear.
Laochangbu Reservoir Basics: Fees & Location
First things first: the cost. Laochangbu Reservoir is super budget-friendly, charging only 10 yuan per day for access. That’s less than $2-unbeatable for a full day of fishing fun. As for getting there, heads up: the mountain roads leading to the reservoir are tricky. I’d recommend a high-clearance vehicle if you have one; small cars might struggle with the bumpy, narrow paths. But trust me, the drive is worth it once you see the calm, green waters surrounded by hills.
Daytime Fishing: Challenges & Small Fry Fun
Let’s talk daytime fishing reality. During the day, landing big fish here is tough. Why? The reservoir is swarming with Anzi (small, pesky fish-think minnows or small crucian carp). They’ll nibble at your bait nonstop, making it hard to target larger species. I spent a whole afternoon switching between corn, worms, and artificial lures, but most of what I caught were these tiny Anzi. Don’t get me wrong, it’s still relaxing-sitting by the water, listening to birds-but if big catches are your goal, daytime might not be your best bet.
Nighttime Fishing: The Rumored “Big Hauls”
Here’s the juicy part: locals swear by nighttime fishing at Laochangbu Reservoir. They say the big fish-like carp, grass carp, or even catfish-come out to feed after dark, when the Anzi calm down. I haven’t tested this myself (night drives on those mountain roads make me nervous!), but every local angler I chatted with had a story: a friend who caught a 5kg carp at midnight, or a group that hauled in three big fish in one evening. If you’re adventurous, grab a headlamp, pack warm clothes, and give it a shot-just let me know how it goes!
Why Laochangbu Reservoir Is Great for Casual Anglers
Even with the daytime Anzi chaos, Laochangbu is perfect for casual fishing trips. It’s quiet, the scenery is lush, and the low cost means you don’t have to stress about “wasting” money if the bite is slow. Bring a picnic, invite a friend, and treat it as a day of relaxation rather than a competitive catch. The reservoir’s remote location also means no loud music or crowds-just the sound of wind in the trees and water lapping at the shore.
Final Tips for Your Laochangbu Trip
- Arrive early: Beat the midday heat and get a good spot before any other anglers show up.
- Bring extra bait: The Anzi will go through your bait fast-pack worms, corn, or small pellets.
- Drive carefully: The mountain roads are narrow and have sharp turns; take it slow, especially after rain.
- Respect the space: There’s no trash bin here, so bring a bag to take all your garbage with you.
I left Laochangbu Reservoir with a bucket of small Anzi and a huge smile. It’s not the place for record-breaking catches, but it’s where you can unwind and connect with nature. If you’re tired of overcrowded fishing spots in Ganzhou, give this hidden gem a try. And if you do hit the nighttime jackpot? Tag me in your photos-I’d love to live vicariously through your big catch!